Its fronds resemble fresh dill, and the bulb reminds you of hearty leeks. It is layered like the onion, but it’s none of these.
We are talking about fennel. Ever wondered what fennel tastes like?
Fennel is a fragrant herb with origins in the Mediterranean region. Its unique taste is a surprising blend of licorice and celery with a hint of sweetness. Because of its unique flavor and aroma, fennel has been used in cooking for centuries.
Whether you are an experienced chef or just beginning your culinary journey, understanding the nuances of fennel can help unlock new dimensions in cooking and broaden your palate. Let’s delve deep into the captivating world of fennel and explore its unique flavor profile.
I. What does fennel taste like?
Fennel is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. It has a unique flavor, which many describe as a combination of licorice, anise, and mint. While anise-flavored and licorice-flavored are the most common terms used to describe fennel’s taste, fennel does not actually resemble a licorice root.
Fresh fennel has a mild flavor that’s hard to describe. It’s perfect for salads and roasted dishes, thanks to its distinct crunchy texture. Whether you’re looking for a delightful bite or a crisp consistency, fennel is an ideal addition to any meal.
II. What part of fennel do we eat?
Different parts of the fennel plant have different flavors. Let’s explore and examine the taste and flavor of each part of fennel:
Bulb
The fennel bulb, or base, is the part that’s usually eaten. It has a crunchy texture and a sweet, licorice-like flavor similar to anise. You can eat it raw or cooked. It adds a nice crunch and flavor to salads, slaws, and other dishes like grilled or roasted fennel.
Stalk
The slender stalks of fennel are just as edible as the bulb, and they can be used like celery in salads or as a garnish for drinks. The leaves are even more delicate and flavorful. They can be incorporated into many dishes as herb or decorative garnish.
Seeds
Fennel seeds are an edible part of the plant and make for a great addition to many dishes. They can be used whole or ground as a spice for bread, pastries, baked goods, and savory marinades and curries. With a sweet, warm, and slightly bitter flavor, they’re commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. They can also be used to brew a fragrant fennel tea.
III. How should you store fennel?
To store your fennel and keep it fresh, put it in a plastic bag and place it at the bottom of your fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks.
If you’ve already chopped your fennel, wrap it in plastic to prevent discoloration.
Note that storing fennel in a fridge can cause some wilting. Despite wilting fronds, if the bulb looks fine without any cracks or other signs of spoilage, it is safe for consumption.
For freezing, cut the pieces and spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag for future use in stews and soups.
IV. Substitutes for fennel
If you don’t have fennel in your kitchen or don’t like its taste, you can use substitutes to get a similar flavor.
- Celery
- Mild Onion
- Dill
- Bok Choy
Conclusion
Fennel has a unique and intriguing flavor. Its intense yet mild taste makes it great for adding to many different dishes, from salads to stews. Both cooked and raw fennel have distinctive notes that will add another level of flavor to whatever you make.
FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about fennel:
Is fennel a type of onion?
No, fennel and onions are two separate vegetables. Fennel belongs to the carrot family and has a unique flavor that is similar to licorice or anise. On the other hand, onions generally have a savory taste. Onions have a thicker and more fibrous texture, while fennel has a light and crunchy texture.
What goes well with fennel?
Fennel goes well with many dishes. It can be added to salads, soups, stews, pizzas, and more for an extra layer of flavor. You can cook fennel with various ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, and oregano.
What is fennel? Is it a spice, an herb, or a vegetable?
Fennel is all three- a spice, herb, and vegetable. It is a versatile ingredient that is used in many forms. The bulb of fresh fennel is eaten as a vegetable, while the stalk and those feathery leaves are used as herbs. Fennel seeds are used as a spice, like roasted fennel, in dishes.
What are the different types/varieties of fennel?
There are two main types of fennel. One is the Florence fennel with a large bulb. The other is the common sweet fennel with aromatic leaves and seeds used as a herb and spice. Apart from that, there is also wild fennel, a variety that is not as widely grown as the other types.